Measurement Computing USB-TEMP-AI - Manual (Page 9)

USB-TEMP-AI User's Guide Installing the USB-TEMP-AI
9
Configuring the hardware
All hardware configuration options on the USB-TEMP-AI are programmable with software. Use InstaCal to set
the sensor type for each temperature channel, the range and input configuration of each voltage channel, and the
alarm conditions. Any channel you don’t intend to use should be left disabled.
The configurable options dynamically update according to the selected sensor category. Configuration options
are stored on the USB-TEMP-AI 's isolated microcontroller in EEPROM, which is non-volatile memory on the
USB-TEMP-AI module. Configuration options are loaded on power up.
Default configuration
The factory default configuration is Disabled. The Disabled mode disconnects the analog inputs from the
terminal blocks and internally grounds all of the A/D inputs. This mode also disables each of the current
excitation sources.
Warm up
Allow the USB-TEMP-AI to warm up for 30 minutes before taking measurements. This warm up time
minimizes thermal drift and achieves the specified rated accuracy of measurements.
For analog, RTD or thermistor measurements, this warm-up time is also required to stabilize the internal current
reference.
Calibrating the USB-TEMP-AI
The USB-TEMP-AI is fully calibrated via software. InstaCal prompts you to run its calibration utility when you
change from one sensor category to another.
Allow the USB-TEMP-AI to operate for at least 30 minutes before calibrating. This warm up time minimizes
thermal drift and achieves the specified rated accuracy of measurements.